SKYDIVING QUESTIONS

1Do I have to make a reservation to go skydiving, and if so, how far in advance?

Reservations are important for your benefit, but walk-ins are always welcome. Customers with reservations will be offered the best time slots and priority service over walk-ins so make your reservation with as much advance notice as possible. It is also best to make your reservation at the beginning of your vacation, this way if we have weather issues you will be able to reschedule for another day.

2What about transportation?

We offer a complimentary shuttle service with a confirmed reservation. The pickup and drop-off location is the McDonald's parking lot directly across the Strip from the Mandalay Bay Hotel. We are only minutes away from the Hoover Dam and Lake Mead, so if you drive yourself here you can visit these historic landmarks and Boulder City.

3What kind of parachute system will we use?

Skydive Las Vegas uses the Sigma Parachute System; it is the most technologically advanced parachute system available. To ensure our customers always have a safe experience, we continually upgrade and update our equipment.

4What type of airplane will we use?

We aperate a 2009 PAC-750XL skydiving airplane that can carry up to 7-8 tandem jumpers (14-16 people). This is the only aircraft specifically designed for skydiving. The aircraft is meticulously maintained by FAA Certified Mechanics, and flown by FAA Licensed Commercial Pilots.

5How long does the entire process take?

Your entire skydiving experience with us only requires approximately 4 hours. We will always work hard to expedite your time with us, but many variables such as weather and air traffic control may extend your adventure.

6What will the skydive feel like?

The sensation of freefall is more like flying than falling and feels nothing like a roller coaster; nothing really compares to skydiving. The canopy ride can be equally exhilarating while allowing time to take in the beautiful scenery and complete views of Lake Mead, The Strip, and the Hoover Dam.

7Are there any age limitations or physical restrictions?

You must be 18 years old and have a valid government issued ID. There is no maximum age limit as long as you are in good health, good physical condition, weigh 250 lbs or less and are height and weight proportionate. Additional charges may apply to those over 220 pounds. Please contact us directly if you have any questions regarding weight requirements. Please note that students who do not meet minimum jumper requirements will not be entitled to any discounts, coupons or special promotions. We do not recommend anyone who is pregnant to skydive. There are no height restrictions as long as all other requirements are met.

8Should I tip my instructor?

Everyone likes to feel appreciated and be acknowledged for doing a good job. If you feel your instructor has provided you with an enjoyable experience, gratuities are greatly appreciated. Everyone at Skydive Las Vegas works hard to help make your first jump safe and enjoyable.

9If I am under 18 can I still jump if my parents sign for me?

No, the age requirement of 18 is set forth due to the "hold harmless" waivers every skydiver must agree to and sign. These waivers are only binding if the person signing is of legal age of consent.

10I am a little overweight, is that going to be a problem?

Most people who live an active lifestyle can go skydiving. There is a weight limit of 250 pounds and the student must be height/weight proportionate in order to make a tandem skydive. Additional charges may apply to those over 220 pounds. Please contact us directly if you have any questions regarding weight requirements. If you are over 250 pounds and are physically fit, some exceptions may be made on a case-by-case basis. Please note that students who do not meet minimum jumper requirements will not be entitled to any discounts, coupons or special promotions.

11How experienced are the instructors?

All instructors are full-time, are certified United States Parachute Association (USPA) Tandem Instructors and have thousands of jumps as well as many years of experience.

12Is skydiving dangerous?

The sport of skydiving is inherently dangerous, but with proper precautions it is statistically safer than many other adventurous activities. Safety is our number one concern, which is why we have a spotless safety record. We use the best equipment, contract only the top instructors and have our gear maintained by FAA Master Parachute Riggers.

13What if the weather is bad?

No one can accurately predict the weather, but luckily Las Vegas averages over 300 days of sunshine per year. Sometimes high winds, low clouds, or rain may prevent us from jumping, but classes are held regardless of the weather. We communicate with our students on a daily basis leading up to the day of their jump to give everyone the best opportunity to make a skydive.

14Can I jump with my friends?

Of course you can jump with your friends. Our 2009 PAC-750XL aircraft can accommodate up to 17 people including the pilot, which means we can carry as many as 8 tandem pairs per airplane load.

BEFORE YOUR JUMP

1Will I have to sign a waiver?

Yes, everyone at Skydive Las Vegas is required to sign a waiver.

2Can I have a beer before I jump?

The FAA requires that all tandem students be drug and alcohol free for 8 hours prior to making a tandem skydive and a blood alcohol content of less than .04%.

Although we love animals, pets are not allowed. This is for the safety of the other customers, our staff and the animals; we are located on an active airport facility.

5What should I eat?

Eat something light before you arrive; jumping on an empty or full stomach is not advised.

6What do I wear?

Wear comfortable clothing and lace-up athletic shoes; no boots or sandals are allowed. Skydive Las Vegas will provide a jumpsuit, goggles and all other necessary skydiving equipment.

DURING YOUR JUMP

1What can I see up there?

Free-falling at 120 MPH and gliding peacefully under your parachute, you can see the Hoover Dam, Lake Mead, the Colorado River, the beautiful golf courses of Boulder City, the Las Vegas Strip, Mt. Charleston, Red Rock Canyon, the Valley of Fire and so much more.

2Where will we land our parachute?

Our landing area is right next to our facility on the airport. Once you have landed, it’s just a short walk back to our hangar. This is ideal if you have friends and family coming out to watch your skydive.

3How will I feel when the parachute opens?

The fast rush of free-fall becomes a quiet and tranquil canopy ride as you soar through the sky.

4How long does the skydive last?

The free-fall lasts approximately 30 – 45 seconds and the parachute ride is approximately 5 – 7 minutes; the entire experience goes by very quickly.

5Will I be scared?

Every person reacts differently. Anticipation, excitement and fear are all very normal emotions to feel before making a first jump.

6Are the landings hard?

Although there is a certain amount of inherent risk to skydiving, the landing is normally less impactful than jumping off a chair.

7Can I breathe in freefall?

Yes, however, the excitement may leave you breathless!

8What does it feel like?

It is a unique sensation that is truly incomparable. (It’s nothing like a roller coaster)

9What if the parachute doesn't open?

All skydiving parachute systems are equipped with both a main and a reserve parachute. All tandem students are attached securely to a well-qualified instructor trained to handle any situation. Skydive Las Vegas takes your safety very seriously and has never had a student fatality.

10What if the instructor gets knocked out and can't pull the ripcord?

All tandem parachute systems are equipped with an Automatic Activation Device (AAD). This device constantly measures your speed and altitude during your skydive. If a parachute is not deployed by the instructor, the AAD will automatically open the parachute.